Extreme Heat Wave in Europe Causes Disruptions and Safety Concerns

Millions in Europe experienced severe heat on Tuesday, resulting in 40 drownings in France over the past week. Extreme temperatures affected multiple countries including France, Italy, Spain, and Britain. The French Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, attributed the drowning deaths largely to young people.

France faced significant heat, with 54 departments under a red heat wave alert. The Eiffel Tower and Louvre adjusted their operating hours due to the heat, impacting schools, transport, and events. Meteo France forecasted temperatures above 40°C (104°F), with records potentially being broken. Tourists in Rome used umbrellas for sun protection.

Compared to the 2003 heat wave, which caused 15,000 deaths, Europe is warming rapidly, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service. Temperatures have surged twice as fast in Europe than the global average since the 1980s. Global records show 2024 was Europe’s hottest year, increasing health risks and wildfire vulnerability.

In Britain, schools closed early and train services were disrupted due to Met Office warnings. Temperatures were projected up to 39°C (102.2°F), impacting southern England and southeast Wales.

Spain issued red alerts for southern Andalusia, with warnings for the normally cool regions along its northern Atlantic coast. Aemet meteorologist Rubén del Campo highlighted the increasing frequency and early onset of heatwaves due to climate change. Since 2015, half of Spain’s June heatwaves have been recorded.

The report was contributed to by Associated Press journalists Sylvia Hui in London and Joseph Wilson in Barcelona.